Why Visit Rwanda
Rwanda is a beautiful country in East Africa known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills" because of its rolling hills and stunning landscapes. It is clean, safe, and full of friendly people who love to share their culture and country with visitors.
One of the main reasons people visit Rwanda is for gorilla trekking. Rwanda is home to over half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas, which are very rare and can only be seen in the wild here and a few other places. Volcanoes National Park is the best spot for a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these magnificent animals close up in their natural home. The national park is only a short drive from the capital city, Kigali, making it easy and convenient to visit.
Besides gorillas, Rwanda offers many other wildlife experiences. Nyungwe Forest National Park is a large tropical rainforest where visitors can trek to see chimpanzees and many other primates. The park is also home to a huge variety of birds, mammals, and beautiful plants, making it a nature lover’s dream.
Akagera National Park in the east of Rwanda offers a different experience with savannah landscapes and big animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes, similar to classic African safaris. This diversity lets visitors enjoy many types of safari activities all within one country.
The capital city, Kigali, is clean, modern, and safe. It is known for its community spirit and special monthly clean-up days called Umuganda. Kigali has museums, markets, cafes, and restaurants where visitors can learn about Rwanda’s history and culture. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a very important site that helps visitors understand the country’s tragic past and its journey towards peace and healing.
Lake Kivu is another beautiful place to visit. It is a large lake with calm waters where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery or take boat trips.
Rwanda is easy to travel to with a simple visa process and good flight connections. The country is committed to protecting its environment, plastic bags are banned, and it’s one of the cleanest countries in Africa.
Visiting Rwanda offers a mix of adventure, wildlife, culture, and beautiful scenery. Whether trekking mountain gorillas, exploring rainforests, mixing with Tanzania classic safari, or visiting lively Kigali, many travelers find Rwanda unforgettable and want to return again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about this tour.
1
When is the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking and safaris?
The best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking and safaris is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. Trails are less muddy, and wildlife viewing conditions are excellent.
2
Is Rwanda safe for tourists to visit?
Yes, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. The capital, Kigali, is clean and secure. As with any destination, basic precautions such as safeguarding valuables and following local guidance are recommended.
3
What wildlife and activities can I expect on a Rwanda safari?
In Rwanda, you can trek mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, see chimpanzees and primates in Nyungwe Forest, and enjoy classic safaris with lions, elephants, rhinos, and more in Akagera National Park. Lake Kivu also offers scenic relaxation and water activities.
4
How much does gorilla trekking cost in Rwanda, and how do I get a permit?
A Rwanda gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 per person (as of 2025). Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and should be booked well in advance due to limited availability.
5
What should I pack for a trip to Rwanda, especially for gorilla trekking?
Pack sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, gardening gloves for trekking, a waterproof jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a daypack. Lightweight clothing for warm weather and a sweater for cooler evenings are also useful.
6
What are the visa and vaccination requirements for visiting Rwanda?
Most visitors need a visa, which can be obtained online (eVisa) or on arrival. The East Africa Tourist Visa is also available for combined travel to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine immunizations. Malaria prophylaxis is advised.
7
How long should I plan to stay in Rwanda to see the main attractions?
A stay of 5 to 7 days is ideal to experience Rwanda’s highlights: gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, a safari in Akagera, and relaxation at Lake Kivu.
8
What is the weather like in Rwanda throughout the year?
Rwanda has a mild, temperate climate due to its high elevation. Average daytime temperatures range between 20°C and 27°C (68°F–81°F). The long dry season runs from June to September, the short dry season from December to February, and the rainy seasons are March to May and October to November.
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